“Never try to teach a pig to sing,” counseled Robert Heinlein. Why not? “You will waste your time, and it annoys the pig.” God’s eternal purpose for the world will not be thwarted. Isaiah believed that God’s word would not return void when he sent it out. Knowing this, what is the best investment of our time and resources for the Kingdom of God? Where do we see God’s hand at work? Like a laser, we may concentrate all our energy where it will be most effective and productive.
Paul gave the Jews in Rome first chance to hear the gospel. Some received his words. As so often before on his journeys, another group rejected Paul’s words. He reminded them that God wanted them to see, hear, understand God’s word, and be healed. Still, as they rejected the words of the great apostle, Paul reminded them that God also wanted to save the Gentiles. And he was confident that they would listen.
Before Robert Heinlein’s advice about swine, Jesus made a similar statement. “Do not give dogs what is sacred. Do not throw pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, turn, and tear you to pieces” (Matt 7:6). I do not know who will receive the message of the gospel. Sometimes, I am tempted to spend all of my time on the most difficult to reach, and ones most reluctant to receive the gospel. Recently I told an atheist friend of mine that I was praying for him. He said, “Stop. It’s not working.” I said, “But it might.”
Henry Blackaby’s counsel still stands, “Find out where God is working and join him in that work.” Look around today and ask God to show you what he is doing. Who is receptive to the message of Jesus? Plant the seed where you see God bringing a harvest. People are not pigs. But God’s Spirit can save anyone. He saved us!
